Facial brushing has never been more popular. Sonic rollers and exfoliating brushes are available everywhere and are often feted as the ultimate in DIY skincare.
However, if you have sensitive or problem skin, these abrasive gadgets may do more harm than good.
Luckily, it turns out that a natural alternative has actually been available for 1,000 years.
The Chinese elite originally used jade rollers to brighten their complexions, soothe irritated skin and de-puff the under-eye area.
Now they’re making a comeback as we learn more and more about the unique properties and abilities of this simple skincare staple.
The history of the jade roller
In Chinese mythology, jade represents beauty, grace and immortality. In fact, the emperors of the Han Dynasty even commissioned bespoke jade suits, in hopes of keeping death at bay.
At various points in Chinese history, jade was more valuable than gold, so jade accessories were seen as a sort of status symbol among society women.
Evidence of jade rollers has been discovered as far back as the 12th century, and the design hasn’t changed much since then, either!
The benefits of using a jade roller
As well as being beautiful to look at, jade has a number of very practical properties. It is one of the only gemstones that remain cool when applied to the skin, so it can offer instant relief to inflamed patches or sensitive areas of the face.
The gentle rolling motion and the pressure of the stone is also great at flattening fine lines and wrinkles, and aiding lymphatic drainage – which can help to prevent blemishes over time and reduce puffiness.
How to use it
Gently push the jade roller along your face in an upwards and outwards motion, starting with the right hand side of the face – the Chinese believed that this aided the flow of qi (or energy) around the body.
To improve lymphatic drainage, focus on key areas such as the neck, jawline and under eye area and apply little more pressure to the roller.
For best results, use the jade roller in the morning and evening, just after you have applied a face cream or serum, as the rolling motion will help the cream to penetrate into the skin.
And, if you want to channel your inner Chinese princess, store your jade roller in a silk casing, to protect the stone.
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